Editor
By Fatima Saka
…urges Nigerians to eschew prejudice
National integration must be prioritized in the ongoing constitutional amendment, as stated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Ph.D.
He also articulated that the legislative agenda of the 10th House is meticulously crafted to tackle the impediments hindering the unity of the nation and the journey towards a ‘more perfect union’.
Speaker Abbas articulated these sentiments during his keynote address at the National Integration Conference themed “Revisiting the National Question: Nigeria’s Elusive Search for National Integration” organized by the Kukah on Friday in Abuja.
The Speaker who was Represented by the Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Abbas emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity can catalyze innovative solutions to the economic challenges plaguing the country.
He expressed, “Nigeria’s pluralism, characterized by its vast diversity in ethnicity, language, and religion, presents a remarkable asset to the nation. Our cultural diversity has the potential to significantly enhance global diplomatic and economic relations.
“The diverse perspectives and skills stemming from this pluralism can foster innovative solutions to economic and social challenges, driving sustainable development.
“The crux of my keynote address here is to underscore that embracing and leveraging this pluralism can propel Nigeria towards a more unified and prosperous future, where the collective strengths of its diverse population are fully harnessed.
“Herein lies the pivotal role of the legislature in promoting national integration. Lawmakers at both the national and sub-national levels are not merely constitutionally mandated to represent the collective interest of all Nigerians but also to ensure that laws, policies, and government programs recognize diversity and actively promote and protect it.
“In our legislative endeavors, we are steadfast in ensuring that the laws we enact reflect our commitment to fostering national unity. Our legislative agenda in the 10th House is meticulously designed to address the challenges impeding our unity and journey towards a ‘more perfect union’. As the representatives of the people, we will ensure strict adherence to constitutional provisions regarding federal character and affirmative action, ensuring equitable representation and resource allocation across all regions and geopolitical zones.
“Our ongoing constitutional amendment process aims to fortify these mechanisms, promoting a more inclusive, just, and equitable society.
“The House has already received numerous recommendations on strategies and measures for promoting national cohesion. I encourage all stakeholders to share their insights with us.
“Moreover, our committees have been empowered and tasked with prioritizing matters related to national integration.
The House, as Nigeria’s most representative body, is dedicated to leveraging the legislative process to foster harmony and cohesion. We strive to fortify our national bonds and bridge existing divides through robust debates, consultations, and collaborations.”
Speaker Abbas also recalled the myriad deliberate efforts made by the government to promote national cohesion since independence.
“In the post-independence era, several constitutional and national dialogues have been convened by successive administrations to address the intricacies of diversity and inclusion. Initiatives such as the National Political Reform Conference and various constitutional amendments have sought to establish a more inclusive governance framework.
“A notable initiative in this context is the Justice Uwais report, which stemmed from the Electoral Reform Committee established in 2007. This report aimed to enhance the inclusivity and fairness of the electoral process, thereby providing a more equitable voice to Nigeria’s diverse population.”
Recommendations from the report included the establishment of more autonomous electoral bodies and mechanisms to ensure that all groups, including minorities, have fair political representation. These dialogues and reforms underscore a sustained commitment to refining the political landscape to better reflect and serve Nigeria’s pluralistic society.
He expressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed a premium on national healing and nation-building, the speaker also implored Nigerians to shun prejudice and embrace tolerance and unity.
He stressed that the strength of the nation lies in its diversity, underscoring that it is a strategic advantage for the nation.
“As noted by numerous commentators following the 2023 elections, the greatest challenge confronting our government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is managing diversity and rebuilding trust among Nigerians.
“The President has made national healing and nation-building a top priority since assuming office. Addressing Nigerians in India during the G-20 Summit in September 2023, the President urged Nigerians to harness the country’s rich diversity as a uniquely potent tool for advancing prosperity and national development. I am cognizant of the fact that embracing diversity is not devoid of challenges.
“The resilience of our nation lies in our capacity to unite despite our disparities. Our diversity should be viewed as our strategic advantage, rendering us more resilient, innovative, and cohesive as a nation. As your representatives, we pledge to continue advocating for policies that foster integration, celebrate our diverse heritage, and build a more robust, united Nigeria.
“I implore all of us as a people to eschew prejudice of any form and embrace tolerance, empathy, and unity. By doing so, we can forge a Nigeria where every citizen is valued and empowered. Let us strive towards a future united by the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood in one strong, indivisible nation,”he concluded.
